What They Are Not Telling Us About Cat Food
(Or What's the FUS About Ash?)
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That tiny print in the fold of a bag of cat food is supposed to tell
us everything we need to know about whether the contents will keep our
beloved tabby in the pink, or corrode his kidneys. Yet most brands
obscure the information we need by providing too much information, and
leaving out what we are really looking for.
The other day I read about a dozen bags in the grocery store. Only one
mentioned ash content (it was much too high), and the one that claimed
to be good for a cat's urinary tract couldn't explain why it actually
is (if it is). If you have ever dealt with a cat's failing kidneys you
know that you want to do whatever you can from the first day you bring
that cute kitten into your home to keep those innards healthy, and all
the plumbing working.

So why can't they just have a urinary tract rating. A 1 would be best
for cats, especially male cats who are prone to developing urinary
problems. A 10 would be really really bad for them (but they like it
the best, kind of like Doritos).

The Real Deal:
Most cats don't even get FUS/FLUTD (feline urologic syndrome/feline
lower urinary tract disease), but why not be safe now and not sorry
later? Get good quality cat foods for life and you are likely to have
a healthy cat.

A good low-ash cat food should not contain more than 6% ash (based on
100% dry weight). Magnesium in a low-ash cat food should be no more
than 0.1% and no less than .05%. Try to avoid by-products. Get real
chicken, beef, lamb etc. Some say fish is suspect relative to
FUS/FLUTD.

If the bag doesn't tell the ash or magnesium content or other
information you are looking for, call the company or get another
brand.